Growing Youth Who Are Strong in Spirit, Rooted in Nature and Committed to Community.

WELCOME TO MERROHAWKE

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The earth and sea is our hands-on, interactive classroom

EDUCATING ON LAND AND OCEAN

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We focus on the whole child by supporting personal growth through deepening connections to the natural world.

A HEALTHIER PLANET BEGINS WITH AN EDUCATION ROOTED IN NATURE

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Our weeklong B.O.A.T. C.A.M.P. program aboard the F/V Erica Lee seeks to develop a lifelong connection to the diverse ecology of our nearby coastal waters.

B.O.A.T. C.A.M.P. WITH CAPT. ROB - AGES 9-12+

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WHO WE ARE

Growing Youth Who Are Strong in Spirit, Rooted in Nature and Committed to Community.

A healthier planet begins with an education rooted in nature. At Merrohawke, we believe that when children spend time learning in the forest and along the shore, they develop a deep respect for the natural world—and for themselves. Through immersive outdoor experiences, we nurture confidence, compassion, and a lifelong connection to community and Earth. Our nature-based programs offer more than academics. They foster curiosity, creativity, and calm—all vital tools in today's world. With an approach grounded in Waldorf education and nature connection, we help raise children who lead with empathy and integrity.

"If we want children to flourish, to become truly empowered, then let us allow them to love the earth before we ask them to save it. Perhaps this is what Thoreau had in mind when he said, 'the more slowly trees grow at first, the sounder they are at the core, and I think the same is true of human beings.'"

Our History

Nature School

During the school year, Merrohawke serves over 100 youth aged 2.9 to teens who attend our Forest Kindergarten and homeschool programs.

Summer Programs

We work 100% outdoors because we believe this is the best classroom for personal growth, and it just so happens that through direct experience on land and at sea, youth develop a profound love and respect for nature that will stay with them throughout their lives.

Equity and Inclusion

Equity and inclusion have always been important at Merrohawke, be it through our program design and delivery or ensuring accessibility to our programs. Since our founding in 2007, we have never turned away a child who wished to attend Merrohawke but lacked the funds to do so.

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MERROHAWKE

Mission & Values

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Unique Approach

We are committed to preserving and protecting the sacred childhood years, and to creating space for children to naturally grow into the fullest expression of their unique gifts. We strive each day to create opportunities for children to feel and understand that the world is good.

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Leadership

Comprised of a dedicated and truly invested team, Merrohawke is supported on all fronts with understanding, empathy and always keeping the success of our students at the forefront.

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Our History

Merrohawke was co-founded by Captains Rob and Kate Yeomans in November 2007 as BOAT CAMP. We have organically evolved into a year-round, youth-serving organization that provides nature-immersive outdoor programs for children and families living within a 50-mile radius of Newburyport, Mass.

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Our Location

Located in Newburyport, Massachusetts, We operate our "B.O.A.T. C.A.M.P." on the waterfront. We also offer land-based programs in Boxford, Massachusetts. We serve the Essex and Middlesex county areas, featuring maritime activities and nature-based programs.

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Strong Kids. Healthy planet. It is our vision that every child will grow into an adult able and committed to better our world.

How To Support Merrohawke

We Apply Key Principles at Merrohawke

Inspired by Waldorf Early Childhood Education

As we grow and evolve, Merrohawke’s core teaching staff are training in, and applying, principles and practices of Waldorf education into our early childhood programs in order to make for the most meaningful experiences in nature possible for our children. In 2019, Merrohawke was accepted as an Associate Member of the Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America.

What's Said About The Merrohawke Experience

Testimonials

"I think my son feels part of something bigger each time he attends a Merrohawke program. He can have a hard time settling in and making relationships with others, but this is never the case at Merrohawke. He’s always excited and proud to go to your programming. He calls Merrohawke the greatest camp he's ever been to. He says it taught him "everything."

Kendra Johnson

Former Student

Merrohawke programs are a wonderful resource to the community. They teach kids the importance of nature and how to respect it. They also teach kids the importance of community, teamwork, and empathy towards others.

Todd Stanton

Parent

I am a NOLS graduate and hold a BA in ecology. Learning about and being in nature is a big focal Point for myself and my daughter. MH nature school Give her opportunities to learn and grow in nature.